DoH reports 288 cases of stroke, heart attack, asthma during holidays

The cases of stroke, heart attack, and asthma have reached 288 during the holiday season, according to the Department of Health (Department of Health).

The latest DoH statistics, covering the period from December 21 to 4:59 a.m. of 31 December 2025, showed 77 heart attack cases, 180 stroke cases, and 31 cases of asthma.

Acute stroke, also known as brain attack, was the leading cause of death among the five reported fatalities, accounting for three deaths, while the remaining two were due to heart attacks.

The number of cases increased by 5 percent compared to the same period last year. The data were derived from 10 DoH-monitored pilot sites tracking acute complications of non-communicable diseases.

Individuals aged 60 to 69 accounted for the largest share of stroke cases, with 53 out of 180 patients falling under this age group. The same age bracket also recorded 28 out of the 77 heart attack cases.

Meanwhile, eight of the 31 reported bronchial asthma cases involved children aged 0 to 9.

The health bureau reminded the public to observe safety precautions to ensure an enjoyable New Year celebration.

To avoid heart attacks, the DoH advised the public to avoid overeating, excessive alcohol intake, and stress. Individuals experiencing chest pain or difficulty breathing were urged to seek immediate medical attention.

To reduce the risk of acute stroke, the agency encouraged maintaining normal blood pressure, engaging in regular physical activity, and consulting health professionals immediately if numbness or weakness is felt in any part of the body.

People with asthma were advised to avoid triggers such as dust or smoke, keep their surroundings clean and tidy, and always have inhalers and medications ready in case of emergencies.